As his death was never shown, the option of a possible return of the character has been left open.

But Blackwood, who turned to acting after presenting shows on Channel 4 and MTV, has revealed he is unlikely to make a comeback.

Speaking to the Radio Times the 47-year-old said: "I would say I've come to a close with EastEnders. Don't get me wrong, I had a great time there and they genuinely looked out for me but they decided they would stop the character when they did.

British television presenter Richard Blackwood performs on stage at the MOBO Awards held at Alexandra Palace on April 19, 2000 in London. (Photo by Dave Hogan/Getty Images)

"In fairness, I was also at a place where I wasn't sure how much more we could get out of Vincent - I always believe you should leave a situation before people need you to.

"The way it was starting to go for me, I knew it was going down a road where I didn't know how much more we could get. So I thought, maybe it's for the best as well."

Blackwood has since joined Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks, making his first appearance on the show in yesterday’s (27 March) episode.